Middle ear pathologies in adults within the mining industry: A systematic review.
Ben Sebothoma
PMID 32242444WHAT IT FOUND
Two studies found middle ear problems in mine workers: 6.4% had abnormal ear test results among 294 sand and gravel mine workers, and 14% reported prior ear drainage among 59 gold mine workers.
The evidence is too small to set trends.
Key findings
01Abnormal tympanometry was reported in 6.4% (n = 19) of 294 sand and gravel mine workers.
02Prior ear drainage was reported by 14% of 59 gold mine workers.
03Only two studies were included, and the review concluded that the evidence was too small and weak to suggest trends.
STILL TO COME
How it was doneWhat they foundWhat it means for SLPs
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What it does not show
Only two studies were included, so the review cannot establish reliable trends. The two studies used different measures, so their findings cannot be pooled or compared directly. One study used tympanometry but did not report the tympanogram types, so the nature of the middle ear problems is unclear. The other study used an interview about ear drainage only, so other middle ear symptoms were not captured. The review described the evidence as too small and weak to suggest trends.
The easy way to misread this
Do not read the 6.4% and 14% findings as established prevalence in all mine workers. They come from only two studies using different methods, and the review says the evidence is too small and weak to suggest trends.